A Culture of Conservation

Using energy wisely offers tremendous benefits for individuals, businesses and for the power system as a whole.

As a result of the collective efforts of many, Ontarians have established a culture of conservation within the province. In 2016, electricity consumption was about 9 per cent lower than it had been 10 years earlier – in part due to conservation programs, codes and standards, new technologies and ongoing changes in energy-use behaviour.

Yet there is still much that can be done to tap into the tremendous opportunities created by energy efficiency and build on the progress made so far.

The IESO works with its partners to promote, monitor, plan and invest in energy efficiency, as it is the most cost-effective resource to help meet the province’s energy needs. It does this through a combination of incentive programs, such as rebates on equipment upgrades and support for training and education initiatives. Energy efficiency also delivers many other benefits that improve the competitiveness of our businesses, communities and our quality of life.

The Benefits of Conservation

Electricity use in Ontario has declined over the last 10 years, due in part to the province’s extensive efforts that encourage people to use energy more efficiently. By participating in Save on Energy programs, Ontarians reduced their energy use by 6.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) between 2011 and 2015 - enough energy to power a city the size of London, Ontario for two years. And that’s not counting the improvement in codes and standards and other new technologies that reduce energy use.

Ontario Energy Demand 2005 - 2015

These kinds of efforts have combined to help avoid the need for new investments in power plants and transmission lines. As a result, conservation supported the work to move the province to a position of low-carbon production and sustained energy adequacy.

The benefits of energy efficiency also extend to other areas. For businesses, improved energy management practices not only result in reduced costs, but they can also improve productivity, workplace safety and sales.

Homeowners can make their homes more comfortable and bright while they reduce energy use, thanks to energy-efficient technologies such as LED lightbulbs and smart thermostats.

See how Valiant TMS improved its bottom line and work environment through energy efficiency.